12 Apr Sermon Recap | Ephesians | A Call to Unity
The book of Ephesians can be divided into two parts, chapters one through three—the cause—followed by chapters four through six—the calling. The first part details all of the things that God has done for us and creates the basis of the Christian cause. Starting in Ephesians four, Paul explains that because Christ demonstrated eternal love by dying for our sins, we have a calling to share God’s love. We do this by being humble, gentle, and patient. We come from many different backgrounds and circumstances, but unity among believers is vital as we attempt to function together as one body. Paul explains that we must have humility and live in peace with others in order to live out God’s calling for our lives.
Suggestions for Studying Ephesians During the Series:
1. Read daily passages along with NLT or ESV study Bible.
2. Read the whole book in one sitting once a week for the remainder of the series.
3. Listen to the whole book in one sitting once a week for the remainder of the series.
Click here to read or listen to the book of Ephesians.
Scripture References
-In what ways has Jesus’ sacrifice and love for you motivated your daily life?
-As Christians, we are guilty of hypocrisy. In what areas of your life do you find yourself being hypocritical?
-Our sin is just as great as those who sin against us. For believers, Jesus paid both for your sin and their sin on the cross. Is there a relationship in your life that needs to be reconciled and peace restored?
-What is your calling? How is God calling you to respond to the gifts and resources that He has poured out on you?
Thoughts to Consider
-We are never the first cause—something has been done for us. As children of God, He is the first cause and we are to live in response to that.
-When we love and engage others and are patient, kind, and gentle, we are doing to someone else what Jesus did to us.
-We can move towards reconciliation with others through humility and recognition.
-If you are someone whose feelings are hurt often, it’s an indication that you are seeking to find your identity in how people treat you or what they think of you.
“What you do doesn’t come out of your own strength—it flows out of understanding who you are.”
“As children of God, He’s the first cause and we are to live in response to Him.”
“Our sin is just as bad as those who sin against us.”
“Pursuing peace with others requires both humility and initiative.”
“What God has done for you empowers you to do the same for others.”
